Ian Seabrook, acclaimed underwater cinematographer behind upcoming Last Breath and next year’s live-action Moana, joins us to dive deep into the 1965 James Bond classic Thunderball. With decades of experience filming beneath the waves, including recent work on Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Old, and Jungle Cruise, Seabrook shares fascinating insights about his journey from amateur underwater photographer to Hollywood cinematographer, and why Thunderball remains such an influential film in his career.
From the groundbreaking 10-minute underwater battle sequence to the technological innovations that made filming underwater possible in the 1960s, we explore how Thunderball pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved on camera beneath the waves. Seabrook offers unique perspective on how underwater filming has evolved from the days of pure practical effects to modern CGI, while discussing his work on recent films like Last Breath and the vital importance of creating safe, comfortable environments for actors working underwater. The conversation spans everything from early influences like National Geographic magazines to legendary underwater filmmaker Ricou Browning (who directed Thunderball‘s underwater sequences and famously played the Creature in Creature from the Black Lagoon) to the challenges of directing actors underwater and building trust with performers who may be facing their fears in an unfamiliar environment.
Whether you’re a James Bond fan or simply interested in the craft of filmmaking, this discussion illuminates why Thunderball remains a landmark achievement in underwater cinematography. Ian’s passion for his craft and deep knowledge of both the technical and artistic aspects of underwater filming made for an engaging conversation about this classic film that helped establish underwater action sequences in modern cinema.
Links
- Find Ian on his website, on IMDb, or on Instagram
- Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- Script Options
- Theatrical trailer
- Original Material and on Audible
- Letterboxd
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